Minneapolis Mayor Condemns Villainization Of Trans Community After Tragic Annunciation School Shooting

Minneapolis is reeling after a devastating act of gun violence at Annunciation Church and School on Wednesday morning, leaving two children dead and 17 others injured. As the city grapples with shock and grief, Mayor Jacob Frey called for unity and compassion, highlighting both the heroism of educators and the need to resist scapegoating marginalized communities in the tragedy’s aftermath .

At approximately 8:30 a.m. on August 27, 2025, worshippers gathered for a back-to-school mass at Annunciation Church were suddenly confronted by gunfire. Police report that the shooter, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, fired dozens of rounds through the church windows, targeting children and adults in attendance .

Two children—an 8-year-old and a 10-year-old, both students at the school—were killed in the attack. Fourteen other children, ages 6 to 15, and three adults were wounded. Law enforcement officials confirmed that the shooter used a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, all recently and legally purchased. A possible smoke bomb was also found at the scene .

The swift response by teachers and staff played a crucial role in minimizing further casualties. According to statements from Annunciation Parish and School, staff quickly moved students under the pews and safely evacuated them when possible, actions that law enforcement and city officials described as heroic .

At an afternoon press conference, Mayor Jacob Frey addressed the city’s heartbreak and called for the community to come together in support of the victims and their families. He specifically warned against allowing the tragedy to be twisted into an opportunity to vilify marginalized groups, including transgender people, stating, “Anybody who is using this as an opportunity to villainize our trans community or any other community out there has lost their sense of common humanity. Kids died. This needs to be about them” .

Frey’s comments were prompted by reports of increased hateful rhetoric targeting transgender people in the aftermath of the shooting. The mayor made clear that the focus must remain on supporting the victims and their families, not on furthering divisive agendas or blaming vulnerable communities .

The broader Minneapolis community responded quickly, organizing vigils and mobilizing support for those affected by the shooting. Vigils were held throughout the city on Wednesday evening, providing spaces for collective mourning and solidarity .

The Minneapolis Foundation established a text-to-donate line, encouraging community members to contribute funds to support victims and families. Donations can be made by texting ACF1 to 41444, with funds distributed equitably in collaboration with the Annunciation community .

Mental health resources and trauma support were also made available to students, staff, and families impacted by the shooting. Local advocacy groups, including those focused on LGBTQ+ communities, reminded residents that support is available for anyone affected by the violence or subsequent rhetoric .

In the hours following the shooting, social media platforms saw a rise in misinformation and targeted hate, especially toward the transgender community. Advocates and city officials expressed concern that the tragedy could be weaponized to promote stigma or discrimination, stressing the importance of fact-based reporting and inclusive dialogue .

Mayor Frey’s statement was echoed by numerous local and national LGBTQ+ organizations, who urged the public and media to avoid assumptions about the perpetrator’s identity or motives and to center the conversation on healing and justice for the victims .

As Minneapolis mourns, city and community leaders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting those affected and working toward a safer, more inclusive future. The tragedy at Annunciation School stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing epidemic of gun violence in the United States, and of the need for compassion and unity in the face of adversity .

The city’s response, led by elected officials, faith leaders, educators, and advocates, emphasized the importance of honoring the victims, supporting survivors, and rejecting hate in all its forms.